Another reader asked how to better blend in and be safer while commuting. The answer is similar to the previous one, but with some additional points.
Dress simply. Avoid flashy logos, loud colors, or anything that screams "outsider". Neutral tones help you blend into any neighborhood.
Stay aware of your surroundings. Limit public scrolling or texting. Holding your phone in busy streets makes you a target. Look up. Scan your environment. Don’t zone out completely, always keep an eye around you.
Even if you're not sure where you're going, move like you do. Confident posture. Eyes forward. Don’t stop abruptly or look lost.
Avoid posting your live location, daily commute, or check-ins on social media. Keep your patterns private.
Skip the busy tourist streets or overly crowded stations when you can. Quiet side streets, alternate entrances, and lesser-used exits help you stay under the radar.
Trust your gut. If something feels off - a person, a block, a situation - it probably is. Cross the street. Change direction. Step into a shop.
Use a small, secure bag. Keep your phone and wallet in your pockets, and any other valuables tucked away, not in outer pockets. Travel light to move quickly if needed.
When commuting to new cities, or risky places, install a trusted safety app. Enable emergency sharing with someone you trust. Keep your phone charged.
Observe how people act in a neighborhood and match the pace. Fast in midtown, slow in residential areas. Adjust to the rhythm.
Remember: Stay unnoticed. You’re not hiding, you’re just not attracting attention. Lower profile = lower risk.